Special Advent Message From the Bishop

Special Advent Message From the Bishop

Dear Friends in Christ,

Grace and peace to you, as again we come to Advent.

This year our Church, like the society where it finds itself, carries with it a tense mixture of fear and hope, apprehension and eagerness. It is fitting that we came to this threshold between the Seasons reciting the Psalmist's reminder that God is with us always, even in uncertain times. We must not ignore what God says to us in that same Psalm: "Be still, and know that I am God."

This busy time, with all its uncertainty, is a time for all of us to nurture a God-centered stillness, in which we wait upon God, wait for the glory of God to be revealed in our midst. It is not a passive waiting; Advent is a time to bear witness to God's transforming work in the world, and to join in that work. It is a time to prepare actively the way of the Lord, God's way of reconciliation, in our lives, and in our communities.

May God bless you richly in that waiting and that work this holy Season. And may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Yours in Christ,

+Barry

About the artist: Kathrin Burleson is based in Trinidad, California. Her work often explores Christian themes, as well as the natural world. More information on the artist is available here.